Hearty and Delicious Bean Soup with Ham: A Perfect Comfort Food Recipe

Looking for a warm and filling dish that’s packed with flavor? This Bean Soup with Ham is the perfect choice for a cozy meal! It’s hearty, nutritious, and perfect for chilly nights. Made with tender beans, savory ham, and a variety of vegetables, this soup is a complete meal that will leave you satisfied. Follow this step-by-step guide to make your own delicious homemade bean soup!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed beans (white beans, kidney beans, etc.)
• 1 lb smoked ham hock or ham bone
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. If you’re using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak them in water overnight to soften them. Alternatively, you can use canned beans to save time, but make sure to drain and rinse them before using.
2. Once soaked, drain the beans and set them aside for later use.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and the onion turns translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth

1. Add the smoked ham hock or ham bone to the pot. The ham adds a rich and savory flavor to the soup as it simmers.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Once the broth begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Seasonings

1. Add the soaked beans to the pot, along with the bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
2. Continue to simmer the soup for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked.

Step 5: Shred the Ham

1. Once the ham hock or bone has been simmering in the soup for an hour, remove it from the pot and carefully shred the meat from the bone.
2. Return the shredded ham to the pot, stirring to incorporate it back into the soup.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed, adding more salt or pepper as desired.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
3. Serve the soup hot with some crusty bread on the side for the perfect meal.

Tips for the Best Bean Soup:

• For an extra depth of flavor, you can add a smoked sausage along with the ham.
• If you like your soup thicker, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher to create a creamier texture.
• Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.

Conclusion:

This Bean Soup with Ham is the ultimate comfort food! It’s loaded with savory flavors, protein, and fiber, making it a hearty and nutritious meal. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying bowl of homemade goodness!